|
For patients with prostate cancer, the side-effects of certain treatments can be life-changing. Even when surviving the disease, living with a diminished quality of life can be equally as hard to cope with. Advances in technology are helping patients find alternative treatments for prostate cancer that help in maintaining quality of life. Alternative healing therapies are being researched in clinical trials to find a way to cure the disease without harsh side-effects. While some of this research uncovers brand new treatment options, other studies discover how certain complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) options, that have been around for centuries, give patients more natural and holistic treatments resulting in fewer side-effects.
Since many of these emerging technologies are still in the clinical trial stage they have not been approved by the FDA or scientifically proven to treat cancer; therefore, like with all prostate cancer treatment options, you should discuss with your doctor which alternative therapy may be best for you. Since research is ongoing, there may be certain side-effects that haven’t been accounted for yet. Also, while the treatment itself may not incur harsh side-effects, undergoing a certain treatment in conjunction with another may result in an unpleasant reaction. Be sure to discuss all current and future therapies with your doctor, and weigh the pros and cons of each while taking into account your current condition and lifestyle to help you decide which road to take.
Treatment side-effects will vary depending on certain factors, such as age and cancer stage, and the intensity of such reactions can vary in degrees from fatigue and slight discomfort to a more noticeable and intolerable state. As research continues, these new treatment options evolve and help to improve the quality of life for prostate cancer patients now, while diminishing the threat of cancer in the future. |
